Bucharest: Clear European perspective is important for continuation of reform implementation

Minister of European Affairs Aleksandar Andrija Pejović participated in the sixth Bucharest Forum, organised by the Aspen Institute and the German Marshall Fund Office in Romania. Minister Pejović spoke at the Strategic Hedging and Power Politics Panel, where he discussed the political situation in the Western Balkans, relations between States, the influences of great powers and interweaving of different interests, but also the common objectives and perspectives of regional development.

Minister Pejović stressed that, due to its geostrategic position, the Western Balkan region has always been an area where the influences and interests of different powers crossed, which also influenced the strategic directions of certain countries, as well as relations in the region. He pointed out that over the last decade, despite the significant internal opportunities and challenges that the countries of the region are facing, it is noticeable that all countries, although unevenly paced, move forward, and that the geopolitical formation of the region, in line with the interests and values of the EU, leads to a long-term stability and gradual economic development of this part of Europe. The Minister pointed to the importance of maintaining a clear European perspective, through greater engagement and support of the EU countries to the Western Balkans, which will ensure a successful continuation of reforms and weaken the influences that only cause disadvantage to the region.

During his visit to Bucharest, the Minister held separate meetings with Romanian Minister for European Funds Rovana Plumb, Estonian Deputy Minister for EU Affairs Matti Maasikas, Minister in charge of the Bulgarian upcoming EU Presidency Liliana Pavlov and President of the Aspen Institute in Romania Mircea Geoana.

Ministers Pejović and Plumb discussed fulfillment of obligations under Chapter 22, focusing on Montenegro's preparation for the use of EU structural funds. Bearing in mind the good experience of Romania regarding the use of European funds, Minister Plumb said that Romania is committed to provide support to Montenegrin institutions through the cooperation programmes in order to make the best use of European funds that will be available to Montenegro after joining the EU.

During the talks with Deputy Minister Matti Maasikas and Minister Lilian Pavlov, the officials discussed the plans to open the remaining chapters, as well as work on meeting the conditions for their gradual closure. Minister Pejović's interlocutors conveyed the support of the current Estonian and upcoming Bulgarian presidency to contribute to the dynamics of Montenegro's accession to the EU through the intensification of the negotiation process.